The good guy finally won. Rupert Boneham — the burly bearded self-styled pirate who became a sensation on last year’s Pearl Islands and returned for the just-wrapped All-Stars edition — May 13 claimed the $1-million prize decided on by viewers.

He came ahead of three other semi-finalists — Colby Donaldson, Big Tom Buchanan and Boston Rob Mariano — vying for a second chance at becoming millionaires.

More than 38 million votes had been cast since the May 9 All-Stars finale and the American Idol-style twist that let viewers choose who would win a second $1-million jackpot. Boneham’s victory was hardly a surprise, however.

from the Calgary Sun by Kevin Williamson

¶ 5/14/2004 09:29:00 AM